The Odyssey Theatre Ensemble, in collaboration with New American Theatre and Not Man Apart–Physical Theatre Ensemble, recently premiered Lear Redux: A Quantum Fantasia, a riveting reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy.
In this innovative adaptation, actor Jack Stehlin, who previously portrayed Shakespeare’s tragic figures in Titus Redux and Tempest Redux, takes on the role of an aging actor whose journey in the play mirrors that of King Lear.
Leading up to the premiere, I had the opportunity to speak with Stehlin about his experiences with Shakespearean tragedy, his personal connection to Lear, and how his character reflects the thematic elements of the original play.
Stehlin’s collaboration with director and choreographer John Farmanesh–Bocca has spanned several years.
Initially, during the production of Titus Redux, the focus was solely on that play’s narrative.
It wasn’t until their partnership deepened during The Tempest that the duo began to conceive of Lear Redux, prompted by a pressing need to explore themes of family, mortality, and the human experience.
Stehlin stated, “There was this feeling – a sense of reckoning. ‘What now?’ And it seemed like the only thing left to explore was Lear – a meditation on family, on the choices we make, and on facing inevitable mortality as we age.”
In Lear Redux, the narrative unfolds in contemporary times, allowing the emotional resonance of Lear’s story to manifest in today’s context.
Stehlin’s character, the aging actor, faces turmoil mirroring Lear’s descent into madness and despair as he grapples with his own personal issues while performing the role of the tragic king.
This technique unites the modern character’s struggles with those of Lear, creating a powerful parallel that underscores the themes of legacy and loss.
Stehlin articulated, “The lines blur between the man and the character: both are grappling with mortality, legacy, loss, and the fracturing of relationships.”
Discussing his experience with other Shakespearean tragic figures he has embodied, Stehlin noted a common thread weaving through these characters—their inherent responsibility for their own tragic fates.
He explained, “Their tragedy often stems from an egocentric view of themselves, making them tend to be self-absorbed rather than empathetic toward others.”
Lear stands out in this gymnasium of tragic figures due to his deeply conflicted nature, with moments that resonate with universal human experiences.
Stehlin expressed that the character’s journey sheds light on an important realization: as life progresses toward its end, individuals face a pivotal choice between embracing life’s beauty or succumbing to despair.
He emphasized that Lear serves as both a cautionary tale for fathers and a message for anyone navigating complex relationships, encouraging empathy, understanding, and love above all.
His role as a father to three daughters further complicates and enriches his connection to Lear.
Stehlin acknowledged that being a father has taught him vital lessons about support and acceptance, further emphasizing the missteps Lear makes in his relationship with his daughters.
He noted that the problematic dynamic Lear has with his children serves as a painful reminder of the repercussions that can stem from ego and favoritism.
Reflecting on Lear, Stehlin commented, “The same themes of ego, love, and reconciliation show up in everyday interactions… There’s always the opportunity to rise above ego and embrace grace and compassion.”
If he could offer advice to Lear, Stehlin would stress the importance of vulnerability and humility in nurturing genuine relationships, particularly with one’s own children.
He believes that Lear’s tragic flaws lay primarily in pride and a lack of meaningful connection, something that all parents should reflect upon in their own lives.
Stehlin lauded Farmanesh–Bocca’s fearless approach to adapting significant works like Lear, recognizing the challenges and breakthroughs inherent in merging classic narratives with contemporary themes.
Their creative process is a collaborative one, blending Stehlin’s classical training with John’s movement-based style, ensuring that the heart of the story remains intact while being reinvigorated for a modern audience.
Stehlin expressed the joy of working alongside his wife, Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin, in producing theatrical performances, highlighting their strong partnership both personally and professionally.
He noted, “We have this shorthand – sometimes a look or a couple of words is all it takes,” attesting to the strength of their long-standing collaboration.
As Lear Redux continues to unfold before audiences, Stehlin hopes viewers will connect with the universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience presented through the lens of Lear’s pivotal narrative.
Performances are scheduled through mid-July, with an invitation to the audience to deepen their connection with the work through post-show discussions and the chance to engage with the cast on special nights.
Ultimately, Lear Redux is not just an exploration of Shakespeare’s tragic king, but also a contemporary examination of the very fabric of familial bonds and the complexities of human relationships in a timeless dialogue.”
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/los-angeles/article/Interview-Jack-Stehlin-on-LEAR-REDUX-A-QUANTUM-FANTASIA-20250524
